dubious
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
something that is probably not honest, true, or safe.
arousing doubt or suspicion; of questionable value, quality, or legality.
Simple“The company made some dubious claims about how much money you could earn.”
In context“The startup's valuation was based on dubious accounting practices that eventually drew the attention of federal regulators.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
feeling unsure or not certain that something is a good idea.
hesitating or wavering in opinion; inclined to doubt or feeling undecided.
Simple“I was dubious about his plan to drive across the country in such an old car.”
In context“Local residents remain dubious about the proposed development, fearing it will destroy the quiet character of the neighbourhood.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
having a result or quality that is not very good or is disappointing.
of uncertain outcome or questionable merit; often used in the phrase 'dubious honour' to describe something unwanted.
Simple“The team had the dubious honour of losing every single game this season.”
In context“He holds the dubious distinction of being the only minister to be fired twice for the same administrative error.”
“Donovan, Noel’s oldest, is given the dubious honour of the story of his night getting “absolutely spangled” and puking in a taxi being shared with millions.”
Etymology tree Latin dubiusbor. English dubious From Latin dubius; like doubt, from Latin duo (cognate to English two), implying “two alternatives” (yes or no, true or false, etc.).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.